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US to provide six more A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to Afghanistan

WASHINGTON : Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) and its partner Embraer Defense & Security have received orders from the US Air Force’s A-29 Afghanistan Program for six more A-29 Super Tucano aircraft.

According to a press release issued by the company, production of these six new aircraft is to start immediately in Jacksonville, Florida and brings to 26 the total number of aircraft provided to the Program.

The A-29 is used to conduct advanced flight training, aerial reconnaissance, and other A-29 Afghanistan Program operations.

“We believe this decision demonstrates that the A-29 Super Tucano is the best aircraft for close air support operations, as well as the most proven, reliable and cost-effective solution for counterinsurgency and irregular warfare scenarios,” said Jackson Schneider, president and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security

“We are proud to continue our support of the Air Force’s A-29 Afghanistan Program as it is not only a testament to the capability of the A-29 aircraft, but also to its ease of operation and cost effectiveness,” said Taco Gilbert, senior vice president for SNC’s ISR business area.

“There is no other aircraft like the A-29 in its ability to provide flight training, light attack, and combat pilot seasoning. Its continued demand demonstrates its value to air forces the world over.”

The A-29 has been active in Afghanistan since early 2016. Its ability to operate in rugged terrain, extreme climates, and austere locations with a small operational and maintenance footprint has resulted in successful operations from at least four bases in-country.